WIESBADEN, Germany -- Senior officers and noncommissioned officers from around Europe gathered here, Jan. 13-14, to discuss key topics and ideas pertaining to the current state and future of the U.S. Army in Europe.
Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, USAREUR's commander, opened the forum by providing a preview for the conference's key topics: building relationships, intelligence, interoperability and the campaign plan.
"Everything that happens in this part of the world the U.S. Army in Europe is part of that," said Hodges, speaking about the Strong Europe framework. "It's exercises, it's relationships, it's capabilities, networks and allies and it is what enables our president to assure allies and deter potential threats."
The first day of discussion focused on studying Russia and a vast array of topics on the current issues with the nation.
Experts were present to discuss subjects including the Russian government's decision making process, their military modernization and operations as well as altercations the country provoked in Georgia and, most recently, Ukraine.
As the first day was coming to a close three Soldiers were recognized and awarded for telling their story as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve in a professional writing competition. 1st Lt. Miles Gabrielson, assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, took the top honor and was presented with an Army Commendation Medal and the Eisenhower Writing Award trophy for his story on his experience as a fire support officer.
The forum wrapped up the following day with discussions about logistical capabilities and freedom of movement though European nations.
Senior leaders are focusing on working to bring the desired outcome of the forum to their individual commands. The commanders are continuing to work towards improving lower level subordinate units while focusing on USAREUR's campaign plan to prevent, shape and win on the battlefield and across the operational theater.
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About us: U.S. Army Europe is uniquely positioned in its 51-country area of responsibility to advance American strategic interests in Europe and Eurasia. The relationships built during the more than 1,000 theater security cooperation events, held in more than 40 countries each year, lead directly to support for multinational contingency operations around the world, strengthen regional partnerships and enhance global security.
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